Nobody understands the point of hybrid cars [video] | Hacker News

Hacker News users debated whether hybrid cars are overly complex, with Toyota’s e-CVT and transmissionless designs drawing the most attention.

Commenters compared hybrid drivetrains with diesel-electric systems, noting tradeoffs in mechanical simplicity, efficiency, and maintenance.

The thread also contrasted Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and Lexus hybrid architectures, including Prius and LS 600h examples.

A longer reply dug into battery lifecycle issues, covering Ni-MH vs. Li-ion chemistries, recycling, and supply-chain impacts such as cobalt use.